Four Grade 10 history pupils from Musina High School will represent South Africa in Tanzania and Angola after they had performed extremely well during the Schools Heritage Educational Debate Programme at Marekele National Park in Thabazimbi last week.

Organized by the National Heritage Council (NHC) and the Department of Education, the aim of the initiative is to create a stimulating learning experience while, at the same time, teaching young people to preserve their culture and heritage. Pupils from all nine provinces of South Africa were competing on the topic: “Endangered intangible and tangible cultural heritage.”

As part of recognizing their hard work, the four achievers were paraded in front of all the pupils and teachers during the assembly on Tuesday. The principal, Mr Abram Legavha, also handed them certificates of appreciation.

One of the pupils, Watson Chuma, said he was happy that he was going to represent South Africa on foreign soil. He said that, during his presentation at the competitions, he stressed the importance of heritage because it can unite people from different backgrounds. “Heritage is important mainly because the spirit and direction of the nation are founded upon it and reflected in its historic origin. It is also important for future generations as it gives them a sense of belonging, preventing them from joining the wrong company and makes them feel that they are part of something.”

Another participant, Thapelo Machacha, said: “When we learn about other cultures and heritages and mix it with our own, we understand ourselves better in life. Not everyone feels a connection with their cultural heritage, but many people do after taking part in initiatives like this one. Some may think traditions are archaic and no longer relevant, and that they are unnecessary during these modern times. It is therefore very important to teach our people that knowing our traditions and cultures have many benefits for us as a nation.”

Grade 10 history teacher Mr Amon Rantsu, who also accompanied the pupils to Thabazimbi, added that the school was very proud of the four pupils “and we have no doubt that they will represent us well in Tanzania and Angola. Through their debates, they have taught us that culture can give people a connection to certain social values, beliefs, religions, and customs. This allows them to identify with others of similar mindsets and backgrounds.”